Victor Osimhen has ruled out a move to Chelsea this summer, dealing a significant blow to the London club’s pursuit of the Napoli striker, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Blues have been active in the summer transfer window, securing the signatures of Tosin Adarabioyo, Caleb Wiley, Omari Kellyman, Filip Jorgensen, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Renato Veiga. They have also strengthened their attacking options by signing Spain Under-19 international Marc Guiu from Barcelona. Despite his impressive pre-season performances, Chelsea is keen on acquiring an established forward to compete with Nicolas Jackson.
Chelsea has been heavily linked with a move for Osimhen, who has a significant release clause of around £110m. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has been firm on not accepting any offer below that amount.
Recent reports suggested that Napoli and Chelsea were discussing a potential loan move that would see Romelu Lukaku moving in the opposite direction. However, Osimhen’s agent has dismissed any talk of a loan departure.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Osimhen is not interested in joining Enzo Maresca’s side, despite his desire to leave the Diego Maradona Stadium this summer. Arsenal has previously been linked with the prolific striker, but they are currently focusing on other attacking targets.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain is considered Chelsea’s main rival for Osimhen’s signature. The French club is looking to strengthen their frontline following the departure of Kylian Mbappe but may need to sell either Goncalo Ramos or Randal Kolo Muani before making a move for the Napoli star.
Osimhen has been part of Napoli’s pre-season training camp, but the 25-year-old has not featured in any of the club’s friendly matches as he remains focused on maintaining his fitness ahead of a potential transfer.
